JUNE 2025CONSTRUCTIONBUSINESSREVIEW.COM8IN MYOPINIONNAVIGATING THE LANDSCAPE OF RETAIL PROJECT MANAGEMENT: STRATEGIES FOR SUCCESSBy T.J. McKeever, Senior Project Manager, Brixmor Property GroupEssential Tools for Tracking Project ProgressTo ensure project milestones are met--most notably, opening on time--it's essential to stay updated on the latest project management technologies. My favorite tools include PlanGrid, Procore, Microsoft OneNote, eBuilder, and TrueLook Construction Site Cameras.PlanGrid is a valuable software tool for drawing sheet management and schedule tracking. Its intuitive interface makes uploading drawing revisions throughout the project accessible. Procore is the market leader in construction project management software; approximately 90 percent of the general contractors we collaborate with already use it. This prevalence means it's present on most of our projects, whether we like it or not. Procore is particularly beneficial for Site Superintendents, allowing them to update daily progress photos from the field and efficiently manage RFIs (Requests for Information) and submittals.Microsoft OneNote is also an essential resource for project management, especially in our hybrid work environment. It excels at managing field notes, as all changes are saved to the cloud and accessed from job sites on tablets or the office. While these project management software tools are my primary go-to, I incorporate generative AI tools more frequently each week to enhance efficiency and streamline processes.My Approach to Risk Management in Construction ProjectsThe best way to manage risk as an owner's representative is to collaborate with trusted partners and vendors who prioritize integrity. When you hire the right architect or general contractor, the project tends to run smoothly, helping you avoid many common pitfalls of construction, such as permitting delays, unmet expectations, cost overruns, and utility issues.While some level of risk is always present when putting a pencil to a blueprint or a shovel in the ground, minimizing risk exposure significantly increases the likelihood of completing the project on time and achieving the desired return on investment.T.J. McKeever is a civil engineer with extensive experience in commercial project management. Over the past five years, he has been a valuable member of Brixmor Property Group, focusing on Retail Project Management within the Tri-State area, encompassing New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut. In his role, T.J. manages projects from the initial stages of cost estimation and due diligence to turnover and completion. He oversees project budgets and schedules, ensuring that every decision made during the building process is quantifiable and aligned with the project's goals. His expertise and attention to detail contribute significantly to successfully executing retail projects in a highly competitive market.Through this article, T.J. McKeever shares his insights on effective retail project management, emphasizing the importance of utilizing technology tools like PlanGrid and Procore for tracking progress. He discusses risk management strategies and the role of digital twins in infrastructure projects. He advises young professionals, highlighting the value of on-site experience and proactive decision-making in navigating construction challenges.
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